How the 2032 Olympics Could Affect Property in South Brisbane

How the 2032 Olympics Could Affect Property in South Brisbane

The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games represent the largest infrastructure investment in South East Queensland's history. With billions allocated to transport, venues, and urban renewal, the Games are already reshaping property markets across the region — and South Brisbane is positioned to benefit.

South Brisbane's Olympic Proximity

South Brisbane is located 1km south from the Brisbane CBD. The closest Olympic venues include:

• The Gabba (Main Stadium)
• Brisbane Arena (Roma Street)
• Suncorp Stadium
• South Bank Aquatic Centre

Historical data from Sydney 2000, London 2012, and Tokyo 2020 shows that suburbs within 30 minutes of Olympic venues experience sustained property value growth of 10–25% above surrounding areas in the decade following the Games.

Infrastructure Investment Affecting South Brisbane

The Olympics has accelerated infrastructure projects that directly benefit South Brisbane:

• South Bank Parklands and Streets Beach
• Queensland Cultural Centre (GOMA, QPAC, State Library)
• Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
• South Brisbane train station

Transport Upgrades

Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro, and road network upgrades are improving connectivity across South East Queensland. For South Brisbane, this means:

• Reduced commute times to the CBD and key employment centres
• Better public transport frequency and reliability
• Improved road access and intersection upgrades
• Cycling and pedestrian infrastructure improvements

These transport improvements permanently increase an area's desirability — and property values follow.

Urban Renewal and Amenity

Olympics host cities consistently upgrade public spaces, parks, and community facilities. South East Queensland is investing in:

• New parklands and green spaces near venues
• Upgraded community sporting facilities
• Improved streetscapes and public domains
• New dining and entertainment precincts

How This Affects South Brisbane Property Values

Short-Term Impact (2026–2032)

The lead-up to the Games typically sees:

• Increased developer activity as builders race to complete projects before 2032
• Rising demand for development sites in well-located suburbs
• Infrastructure premium as transport projects near completion
• Rental demand growth from construction workers and Games preparation staff

Games Period Impact (2032)

During the Games:

• Short-term rental surge — Airbnb and holiday rental rates increase significantly
• International exposure — global spotlight on Brisbane and SEQ lifestyle
• Tourist spillover — visitors discover suburbs beyond the CBD

Long-Term Legacy (2032+)

The lasting impact is the most significant:

• Permanent infrastructure — transport, venues, and amenity remain
• Population growth acceleration — Olympics showcase attracts permanent migration
• Sustained development — ongoing urban renewal extends beyond Games requirements
• International investment — global capital follows Olympic exposure

Sydney's Olympic suburbs (Homebush, Newington, Rhodes) saw property values triple in the 15 years following the 2000 Games. Similar patterns are expected across SEQ.

What This Means for South Brisbane Property Owners

South Brisbane's development outlook: Very high for mixed-use and high-density residential. The South Brisbane Riverside Neighbourhood Plan supports significant intensification. Sites along Grey Street, Melbourne Street, and Vulture Stree.

If you own property in South Brisbane, the Olympic effect means:

1. Your property may have development potential that didn't exist 5 years ago. Rezoning and infrastructure changes are opening new opportunities.
2. Developer demand is increasing. Builders want to complete projects before 2032, creating urgency in the acquisition market.
3. Timing matters. The strongest seller's market typically occurs 3–5 years before the Games, as developers compete for remaining sites.

The window for selling development sites at peak Olympic premium is now through 2029. After that, the most desirable sites will already be acquired.

Is Your South Brisbane Property a Potential Development Site?

Not every property in South Brisbane will benefit equally. The Olympic premium is strongest for:

• Properties zoned for medium-to-high density development
• Sites near transport infrastructure (current or planned)
• Larger blocks (600m²+) suitable for multi-dwelling projects
• Corner blocks and sites with dual street access
• Properties in designated growth corridors

ACRES provides complimentary development site assessments for South Brisbane property owners. We'll assess your zoning, constraints, and proximity to Olympic infrastructure to determine your property's potential.

Find out if your South Brisbane property is positioned to benefit from the 2032 Olympics.

Daniel McCormack

Managing Director, ACRES — Australian Commercial & Residential Group

07 3096 0542About the author →Meet the team →